Auckland's first mill, built in 1844 for William Mason, on land that was part of Suburban Farm lot no. 69. Initially a corn mill, in later years it ground animal (and supposedly even human) bones for use as fertilizer. It was variously worked by many of Auckland's early millers, including Charles Partington and John Bycroft. A history of Bycroft's milling firm recalls that the Maori supplied much of the grain for milling, and tells of the canoe rides used to get grain to the mill.
The tower was constructed from scoria (locally sourced stone), and was reported as 50ft high in New Zealand Herald in 1949, and from a 20th century ground plan was about 34ft diameter at the base, with walls reportedly 4ft thick. From an auction notice we know it contained a pair of 3ft. 6in. French Burrs, along with complete Dressing and Smutting Machines. All known photos of the mill date from once it was disused, and show probably 3 floors in a conical lower section, with another floor in a vertical sided top to the tower - it's unclear if it was built like this, or whether the vertical bit was a later addition. A wooden house for the miller was built alongside.
Probably ceased work by about 1863, a drawing supposedly dated 1871 shows a tower without cap or sails, and may then have had some temporary residential use of the upper floors, and the ground floor did duty as a dairy. Years later in the mid 1920's it remained as a bare tower, and there was talk of demolition for a number of years, but also some consideration of preserving the mill tower in public ownership. Both the demolition and the preservation were not proceeded with, and the tower survived till finally demolished in late 1952 - thus also being Auckland's last windmill, being demolished just over a year after Partington's mill had been.
DOMESTIC INTELLIGENCE. Agricultural Society.A local farmer, William Mason, received a number of prizes for "Pease, Kidney beans, Cow and Calf". A model of a flax machine being exhibited by Joseph Lowe was also much admired:
This Society held its first show on Tuesday last in the presence of a numerous and respectable assemblage of the people. Prizes were awarded in two departments, animal and vegetable. The exhibition of Floral, Horticultural, and Farm Produce, was held in the large room of Hart's Hotel, and was in every respect highly creditable to the colony, and to this settlement in particular.
An exceedingly ingenious and beautiful model of a machine for dressing Flax was exhibited by Mr. Lowe, which reflects the highest credit upon his mechanical genius. We were better pleased with this machine than with any thing exhibited on the occasion. After we have tested its fitness for the purposes intended, we shall speak more particularly of its merits.
(It doesn't look as if that paper did actually follow up on the flax dresser, though they do mention it briefly the next time they refer to Mr Lowe.)
Given the small local population at the time, it's quite likely that the two men, Mason and Lowe, were already aware of each other before that show, but in any event, within a few weeks, they were linked together in a venture to build Auckland's first flour mill: Daily Southern Cross, Volume 1, Issue 40, 20 January 1844Flour Mill. - Mr. Mason of Epsom is, we are happy to hear, about commencing to erect a windmill on his property. He will by this undertaking confer a great benefit upon Epsom in particular, upon the colony in general; and we trust, upon him self individually. Mr. Lowe (the ingenious maker of the beautiful model of a flax-dressing machine which was exhibited at the Agricultural Show) is engaged to erect the mill for Mr. Mason.As well as Low(e), Charles Partington, at the time a millwright, was also involved in building the windmill: Auckland Chronicle and New Zealand Colonist, Volume 2, Issue 25, 24 January 1844
Wind Mill, — We are happy to hear that Mr. William Mason, of Epsom, has made arrangements with Messrs. Partington and Low, for the immediate erection of a Mill to grind our Corn, &c. There is little doubt but this will turn out a profitable speculation.
We are glad to hear that Mr. Mason, of Epsom, is sustaining the character he has so well earned as an enterprising Colonist, by the progress he is making in the erection of a Mill upon his property, the hoppers of which, perhaps in less than a month, will be merrily going. This is really a service to the Colony; the harvest has been abundant upon every portion of our settlers’ land, hitherto brought under cultivation, and it is a satisfaction to know that by means of Mr. Mason’s mill, the settlers will have a better prospect than sending their wheat to Sydney, where, at the present moment, it would probably not realize more than 3s. per bushel, although the uncertainty of our supplies of flour from thence is so great, as to keep up the present price to £18 or £20 per ton. The Colonists of Auckland have had many a day of anxiety to go through; but up to a certain period, there has been for them a large reliance upon the expenditure of the Home Government - this must now be considered as certainly much reduced, and the Colony must therefore look earnestly to her own resources, and every one may be considered a benefactor to the community who helps to develope her domestic means. The ingenious mechanics who are conducting this improvement under Mr. Mason’s superintendance, Messrs. Lowe and Partington, are deserving of mention in this matter; we understand that the necessary work is being conducted upon highly scientific, though at the same time very frugal, plans, and yet that it will be completed upon a scale quite sufficiently large for the probable requirements of Auckland for a long time to come.
A second Agricultural Show was held, and the increasing wheat growing in the Epsom and Tamaki areas well represented, indicating the pressing need for local milling facilities, though some flour was also shown (presumably ground on some form of hand mill): Daily Southern Cross, Volume II, Issue 46, 2 March 1844
AGRICULTURAL SHOW.
The arrangements on the present occasion were much better than at the former Exhibition of the Society. The large room of the Royal Hotel was procured by the Committee, and very tastefully laid out.
The Fruits, Vegetables, and Seeds, were placed on a table in the centre of the Room, leaving abundance of space for the visitors to walk round it, and to inspect the various specimens. ...
The settlers from Tamaki and Epsom exhibited several varieties of Wheat and Barley, and a gentleman produced a very good sample of Flour made in the Colony from Colonial wheat. The samples of Barley were particularly good. We noticed a specimen of Wheat from one of the Tamaki farms, which is much heavier, and apparently much more productive than the ordinary kinds.
TO SETTLERS.Mason did not actually own outright the land he had started building on: New Zealand Gazette and Wellington Spectator, Volume V, Issue 338, 3 April 1844, Page 3
MR. MASON has much pleasure in announcing that his Flour Mill will be completed by the first of May.
He will be obliged by Gentlemen sending their Wheat as early as possible, as it is his intention to work the Mill only three months this year.
Eden Grove, March 19, 1844.
Land Sale. — All the lots advertised were sold to claimants in exchange for their confirmed claims. The lots on the north shore, with the exception of three or four were sold to the New Zealand Company. Town lots sold at from 13s. to 31s. per perch. Suburbans from £1 1s. to £32 per acre; and the north shore lands at £2 to £2 8s. per acre.The mill was reported as being in operation, perhaps towards the end of that 3 month period: Daily Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 65, 13 July 1844
...
Mr Mason purchased the lot at Epsom on which he is at present erecting his mill — the only one sold for cash.
Flour Mills. - Mr. Mason's Flour Mill is now, we are happy to hear, in operation. Another Flour Mill will soon be established on the Thames. This is some encouragement to the growers of wheat.Its operation again caused thoughts of Auckland being able to avoid importing flour: New Zealand Gazette and Wellington Spectator, Volume V, Issue 355, 31 July 1844
Mill. - We are glad to hear that Mr. Mason's Mill is in full operation grinding wheat and maize. We hope the merry clack of her machinery will not cease, and that our industrious agriculturists will keep up a supply of grist till not a pound of foreign flour is imported. — Ibid. [Chronicle].
Last year, the cry was the want of mills to grind our wheat, but in less than twelve months we have one substantial mill in operation, and we are happy to see the foundation of another being laid in Mechanic's Bay, on the very boundary of the town. Messrs. Lowe and Motion are now busily engaged in erecting a water mill, which, from their enterprize and skill, will we doubt not, be in a very short time completed. Mr. Lowe was the contractor for the building of Mr. Mason's mill, and having performed such a good job for another, he is not likely to neglect his own. A mill at Auckland is much wanted for the coast settlers; and we have every reason to believe that there will be work enough for both mills before another year is over.Later on that year, a quick round up of the situation confirmed that a second mill was on its way for Auckland: Daily Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 81, 2 November 1844
Second Annual Report of the Agricultural and Horticultural Society of Auckland.
Since the publication of the First Report, a windmill has been erected within three miles of the town, and a watermill is in course of erection close to the town; a brewery is also about to be established in the same vicinity, all of which are of the utmost importance to the Agricultural Interests, and evince the energy and advancing prosperity of our infant community
Some changes have also taken place in the prices of labour, grain and stock; and in the expense and manner of clearing land, and much practical knowledge has been gained of the least expensive and most profitable modes of farming.
NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.It was indeed published in the next edition, and examined the economics for the farmer given the charges for grinding at the mill Daily Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 85, 30 November 1844
We regret that we are unable to make room this week for the letter of "Triptolemus." The subject is important, but we cannot help our limited space. It will appear in our next.
ORIGINAL CORRESPONDENCE. FLOUR MILLS. To the Editor of the Southern Cross.This got an editorial reply in the same edition: Daily Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 85, 30 November 1844
Sir, - The late rains have occasioned a most beneficial change in the appearance and state of the wheat crops, and there can be little doubt, now, as the season is so far advanced, that the harvest will be in the neighbourhood of Auckland most abundant; but I would through the medium of your valuable journal, awaken the attention of the public, and remind them that the harvest, however productive, will neither be profitable to the farmer, nor beneficial to the community without mills to convert the grain into flour for the internal consumption of the Colony.
It is true there is a mill at Epsom, and one of small water power in Mechanic's Bay; but these are, from various circumstances, quite inadequate, (as well as inaccessible) to grind all the grain that will be produced, exclusive of the great trouble and expence that will be incurred in employing them.
The farmers will for the most part, have great quantities of wheat for sale beyond their own wants for flour, as well as for seed. It would be much more advantageous for them to sell their wheat at a Corn Market, as in England; but at present there are neither corn-factors nor flour-factors in Auckland, therefore they will be compelled themselves to convert their wheat into flour before it will be saleable, and then it will only be purchased by degrees, as the wants of the bakers, and the consumption of the public may require. In England the farmer is nothing but a grower of wheat, and as soon as his crops are ready he can immediately obtain money for them, and he need only withhold them from the market on account of the current prices not being satisfactory to him; but he can always on any urgent necessity, sell at some price. But here, the farmers, it is to be feared will have neither market for their corn, nor mills conveniently available at moderate expence to grind their wheat, provided they could compete with the importers of flour from the neighbouring Colonies. If such should be the fact after the approaching harvest, the agriculture of the Colony will receive a most severe check, and those at present pursuing it will be disheartened, if not more seriously and pecuniarily affected. The advantage of being able to sell his grain as soon as it is ready for the market, would greatly relieve and encourage the farmer, as well as induce others to embark in similar pursuits; but if grain is unsaleable and inconvertible into flour, there will be a death-blow to husbandry, and land will be unsaleable and unoccupied for years to come.
In commerce every additional transit of produce enhances most considerably the first cost, and of all modes of conveyance, even in countries with good roads, water carriage is by far the least expensive. In New Zealand in its present state this truth is most obvious. For instance a farmer on the Tamaki : - if there was a granary and mill at Auckland, he could send wheat in large quantities by boat at very small expence; but he must now cart his wheat to the Epsom mill, which will occupy his team of four bullocks and driver a whole day to carry twenty bushels of wheat, and the flour must afterwards be taken from the mill and conveyed to Auckland for sale, which will occupy another day. It must be recollected that it will be in the autumnal and winter months, when the roads will be almost impassable for drays with a very light load, that the farmer will be obliged to send to the mill, and these two days for the bullocks and driver may be moderately estimated an expence to him of eighteen shillings.
The charges at the Epsom mill are, one shilling per bushel for grinding wheat; or one shilling and three pence for cleaning the wheat and grinding; or one shilling and nine pence for cleaning and grinding the wheat and dressing the flour. But at present there is neither cylinder for cleaning the wheat, nor machine for dressing the flour. The bran and pollard cannot be considered as an equivalent to, or reduction of any expence of grinding, as they are unsaleable in this Colony. The expence therefore, exclusive of the cost of sacks, of converting wheat into flour would be at least two shillings and nine pence per bushel. In England, the expence is only from three pence to four pence per bushel for cleaning and grinding the wheat and dressing the flour; the bran and pollard are returned with the flour, which are carted by the miller home to the farmer.
The product of flour from good wheat is, as 4 is to 5, of the weight of the latter; so that of wheat averaging 60 to 62 lbs. per bushel, it would require 42 bushels to produce one ton (2000 lbs.) of flour, at an expence to the farmer of ÂŁ5 11s. 6d. Presuming the current price of imported flour in Auckland to be ÂŁ12 per ton, which may be considered the average price at which it can be brought here to pay the Australian grower, except in seasons of drought and scarcity, and deducting from that the sum of ÂŁ5 11s. 6d., there would be ÂŁ6 8s. 6d.; therefore three shillings per bushel would be the price that the New Zealand farmer would actually receive for his wheat by selling his flour, ground at Epsom, at ÂŁ12 per ton.
In Hobart Town the wheat is taken from the vessel and ground, for the remuneration of the bran and pollard, the whole product of the flour being returned by the millers without any further charge.
The freight of wheat between Hobart Town and Auckland is one shilling per bushel; therefore it would be as cheap for the farmer here, especially residing on the coast or on the rivers, to ship his wheat to that port to be ground and have the flour returned, as to be at the greater trouble in dragging his wheat through quagmires and swamps, to a distant mill in the interior of the country.
The consumption of flour in Auckland and adjacent districts which it supplies, may be estimated at ten tons weekly, consequently requiring annually above 20,000 bushels of wheat. More than ten thousand bushels of wheat will be produced this ensuing harvest in the Waitemata districts of the Tamaki and Epsom. It will indeed be a most lamentable state of things if the approaching productive crop should become unavailable in the Colony, and the wheat be obliged to be exported in order to be ground in other Colonies, or sold there at prices ruinous to the New Zealand farmer. In order to avert such consequences the agriculturists and settlers generally, should exert themselves, and endeavour to induce some capitalists here, or from Sydney, to establish a granary with mill worked by steam at Auckland; the only place and market, in the present state of the Colony, where it would either remunerate the proprietors, or be of beneficial assistance to the farmers; for the latter if located on the coast, could cheaply convey wheat there, and if in the interior, one cartage direct to Auckland would be less trouble and expence than carriage of wheat to a distant mill, and of the flour subsequently thence to Auckland.
Being an observer of passing events in the Colony, and deeply anxious for the advancement of its agriculture, as the first step to its independence, future commerce and prosperity, I could not refrain from calling your serious attention to this important subject, and with the hope that it will receive your able powerful support,
I am, &c, Triptolemus. Tamaki, 19th Nov. 1844.
Flour Mills.To the letter of "Triptolemus" on the above subject, we would particularly call the attention of his brother farmers and settlers in the hope that they may devise some means of saving themselves from the ruinous effects of the present state of things.
If the cost of grinding wheat be so great as "Triptolemus" represents it to be, the sooner the farmers set about erecting another mill the better. We do not at all blame Mr. Mason for the charge he makes for grinding wheat at his mill, he has every right to demand his own prices, he has been at great expence in erecting his mill, and he has built when no other person in the place would do so, and for our own part we sincerely hope it will pay him well. As regards the mere price of grinding wheat, his interest and that of the farmers are as a matter of course, opposed to one another. The only remedy that we can suggest to the Tamaki settlers, is to join together and to erect a mill of their own. They have already built, or they are now about building a church and a school-house. A flour mill, a smithy, and a public house ought to follow as a matter of course. To wait until they can induce a Sydney capitalist to invest money in the erection of a mill in this country is scarcely prudent. A wind-mill somewhere about Mr. Kempthorne's farm, or on one of the head-lands, might answer the purpose well.
Tamaki at the time was a small coastal village, about 11km South East of the centre of Auckland. As such it was about 9km east of the Epsom mill, and from there it was a further 5km in to the centre of Auckland (all distances measured in a straight line, not according to the roads at the time).
Since a number of comments had been directed at him, Mason wrote a reply to the letter for the next edition: Daily Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 86, 7 December 1844FLOUR MILLS. To the Editor of the Southern Cross.The offer to pass on the mill, at cost, to another owner, was not apparently taken up.
Sir, - The letter of "Triptolemus" in your last publication requires my immediate notice. I therefore take the liberty of addressing you, that "Triptolemus" may be no longer misinformed on the subject.
The public are aware of my intention in erecting a mill, and will be able to judge from the spirit of "Triptolemus'" letter, his good intention to them and to me without my applying a small water power to force it on them.
My object was simply this: finding there was no probability of a mill of any kind being erected, I put myself to the greatest personal inconvenience, and solely as an inducement to encourage the culture of wheat, that we might not be another year dependent on the neighbouring Colonies for our supplies; and not with the selfish motive attributed to me. The moment it was at work I said, I have done my part, my object is gained, a mill is erected. I shall now be most happy to produce my accounts, and give the mill to any person that will work it for the exact cost, and I shall be happy to hand it over on the same terms to-morrow to "Triptolemus."
'Tis true the mill I have erected is small, but quite large enough for the district in which it is built, and will be perfectly complete with dressing and smutt machinery before the ensuing harvest.
I am, &c, W. Mason. Eden Grove, November 30, 1844.
P. S. - Mr. Mason will draw any quantity of wheat from, and return the flour, bran, &c, to Auckland, at the rate of four-pence per bushel, through the quagmires and swamps, to the mill in the interior.
[In justice to Mr. Mason we publish the above letter. In doing so, however, we must say that we do not think that Mr. Mason need trouble himself about any thing "Triptolemus" or any other person may write about his mill. Mr. Mason, by the erection of the mill, has unquestionably conferred a benefit upon the settlement, and whatever may be now said by the farmers, we know the mill has been a very strong inducement for them to cultivate land. No other person had the energy or enterprise to attempt the erection of a mill when Mr. Mason came forward to do so. And we sincerely trust the mill will pay him well, - Ed.]
To the Editor of the New Zealander.Interestingly, a newspaper obituary for Mason, many years later, claimed it was lack of corn that was the downfall of the milling venture: Otago Witness, Issue 2261, 1 July 1897, Page 12It is a very great misfortune for this settlement that, as yet, there is no efficient corn mill here. There seems great doubt whether the windmill at Epsom will ever answer any useful purpose, on account of the unsteady character of the wind in that locality, its operation continues very unsatisfactory.
The water-mill in Mechanic's Bay having been purchased by an individual who has a large quantity of wheat of his own to grind, the accommodation of the public is necessarily deferred to an indefinite period: in the mean time, the grain of the poor settlers and farmers is being consumed by vermin in the sacks, and they are driven to buy flour, and to meet their expenses in the best way they can.
Under these very trying circumstances, is it not to be most deeply lamented that the Government should put any obstacle in the way of private enterprise in erecting another water-mill?
A respectable settler at the Tamaki had agreed for the purchase from the natives of a piece of land through which an efficient mill-stream flows, in order to erect this much desired mill, but he has been prevented doing so, by the Government refusing their sanction, under the plea of its being a Native reserve. I thought that the only Native reserve was the land on the north side of the Tamaki road — which, albeit, itself has been allowed to be encroached upon by purchasers. If the land in question be reserved as an afterthought, such a principle may be applied indefinitely, and effectually prevent any other persons from looking after mill-streams. - Why not grant a ninety-nine years' lease, if that would secure the speculation?
If something is not speedily done in this behalf, what is to become of the interests of the settlers?
I am, Sir, your's &c,
A FARMER.
While he was there, also, he planned and erected a stone flour mill on the scoria at Mount Eden, and he worked it himself, but there was not enough corn grown in the colony to keep it going, and the venture did not prosper.
Sales By AuctionIt appears it wasn't sold, but was leased a few weeks later New Zealander, Volume 1, Issue 34, 24 January 1846
ELIGIBLE INVESTMENT.
MR. HART,
Begs to announce that he has received instructions from Mr. William Mason, to put up to public competition, on Monday, the 8th of December, next, at the Mart, at 12 o'Clock precisely,
EDEN MILL, EPSOM.THIS Mill is built of Scoria, and every part is of the very best material. The proprietor having spared neither time nor expense to render it the most complete thing of the kind in the Colony. It contains one pair of French Burr Stones; Smutting and Dressing Machines; and all that would be necessary to carry on the lucrative business of a Miller. The Mill has ground and cleaned in the day 100 bushels Wheat. There is also attached, a Weather-board store and Miller's House.
It is hardly necessary for the Auctioneer to point out that the extensive Districts of the Tamaki and Epsom are almost entirely dependant upon this Mill for getting their Wheat ground. To an industrious Man this presents the opportunity of realizing in an incredibly short time, a handsome competency.
Terms will be most liberal. Twenty per Cent, deposit, and the residue in any period from 1 to 10 years, at the option of the purchaser. Thus the buyer is offered the certainty of being fully enabled to pay for the property out of the proceeds of the profits.
TO FARMERS AND OTHERS,That ad ran for just 3 occasions over a two week period, on the 24th, and 31st Jan, and 7th Feb, but the partnership lasted less time than the ads did - it was dissolved just 8 days after the first ad appeared! (Not sure why it then took 6 weeks for the notice to be published). New Zealander, Volume 1, Issue 41, 14 March 1846
MESSRS. SPENCER & DIXON,
BEG to announce to the Inhabitants of Epsom, Tamaki, &c, that having leased the Eden Mill, Epsom, they are ready to grind and dress Flour in any quantity, at the following rates :-
Ground, per Bushel, 1s. 0d.
Ground and dressed, ditto 1s. 3d.
N.B. — S.& D. beg to inform the Public that the whole of the Machinery has undergone a thorough repair.
January 23rd, 1846.
THE Partnership hitherto existing between the undersigned, was this day dissolved by mutual consent - All accounts against the firm will be settled by Peter Dixon.I've been unable to find any further mentions of either Dixon, Spencer, or Conrey.
P. DIXON, A. SPENCER.
(Witness) W. MASON, C. CONREY. February, 1, 1846.
As a general proposition it may be stated that the two great desiderata in all new settlements are good roads and good mills, — the former being works of general utility, should and generally do constitute the care of the executive government, and should proceed as much as possible the colonization of a country; but the latter must be supplied by private capital and enterprise, — and it is to this point that I wish particularly to draw the attention of your readers.
The weekly consumption of flour in Auckland is computed to amount to from 10 to 12 tons, or from 500 to 600 tons per annum
...
But where is it to be ground? aye, there’s the rub. Not at Epsom certainly, with only one pair of stones of 3 feet or 3 ft. 6 inches in diameter, and with a wind-mill which appears to be perversely determined to be continually out of order, nor at the water mill in Mechanic’s Bay, where for the last six months there has not been water sufficient to turn the wheel for more than a few hours in each week, — the consequence is, that all, or nearly all the wheat grown here must be sent to Sydney to be ground, and returned here in the shape of flour. An excellent thing, no doubt for the owners of Sydney trading vessels, and for Sydney Millers, but not for the inhabitants of Auckland, and its vicinity. And yet how easily this could be prevented, and the present loss by this system, be converted into a gain. An efficient steam engine of 15 or 16 horse power, driving three pair of stones of 3 ft. or 4 feet diameter, would grind and dress 150 bushels of wheat per diem, with ease, i. e., in 100 working days or less, it would grind all the wheat now grown in the district.
EDEN MILL, EPSOM.Having originally built the mill as a millwright, Charles Partington then joined up with John Bycroft to purchase the mill: New Zealander, Volume 3, Issue 109, 16 June 1847
MR. HART Has received instructions, to offer to Public Sale on Monday, next, unless previously sold by private contract-
THAT excellent SCORIA built MILL at Epsom. It has been erected regardless of Cost, and is admirably adapted for the purpose of grinding and cleaning wheat. There are two 3ft. 6in. French Burrs, and complete Dressing and Smutting Machines, with two acres of land having a Crown Grant, and the whole will positively be sold without any reserve.
EPSOM MILLS.Within a few weeks, the mill is being referred to as Partington & Co's mill, rather than Mason's mill, confirming the change in ownership. New Zealander, Volume 3, Issue 114, 3 July 1847, Page 2
MESSRS. PARTINGTON and BYCROFT having purchased the Epsom Mill, and having put it in thorough repair, inform the public they are now ready to grind Wheat, or other Corn, on the most reasonable terms. For the convenience of their friends, corn may be delivered at there Bakery, near Mr. Hart's, Epsom, at the Mill, or at Mr. Weston's Store, Auckland. Wheat purchased in any quantity.
Native Flour Mill. — The mill at Rangiawhia, in the Waipa district, is now finished, and has been found to work very efficiently, and much to the satisfaction of the native proprietors. On its first trial, after the mill had run an hour, and ground four bushels of wheat within the time, the third instalment of £50 was paid to the millwright, Mr. Stewart M'Mullan, according to an agreement previously entered into. The natives were highly pleased with the manner in which the work was performed, and are speedily acquiring sufficient knowledge to enable them to superintend the working of the mill without any European assistance. The mill-stones are 2ft. 10in. in diameter, and were procured from the back of Mount Eden, near Partington & Co.'s wind-mill. They are of the hardest and best description of scoria, and have been found to work in no way inferior to the average of French burrs. The natives rendered great assistance in the construction of the mill; they sawed the timber with their own hands which was required for the erection of the mill-house. They are all now busily engaged in sowing wheat, and are in hopes, in the event of the trunk road passing their district, to be enabled to supply the labourers with flour, of good quality, from their mill. The erection of the above mill will cost the natives £200, which sum has been raised by shares of £1 each among themselves, and hitherto their payments have been honorably made. The Rev. Mr. Morgan who excited the natives to this undertaking, has given his attention to the work during its progress.
Again, there is an important road passing west of Mount Eden, commonly known as the scoria road, which has become almost impassable for any description of vehicle. A very trifling outlay would put it in order, not only for the present, but, from the nature of the soil, for many years to come; and we trust, very shortly, to see something done towards its amelioration, especially as it is the only means of communication we have with a thriving brewery, a flour mill, and some of the best and most extensively cultivated farms in the Colony. It is also a much nearer route to Oneunga, than by the Epsom road now in progress.The road to the mill was viewed as more important than many other roads: New Zealander, Volume 3, Issue 117, 14 July 1847
THE ROADS.
Such is the wretched state of the important road leading by Mount Eden, that Messrs. Partington and Bycroft, who have lately purchased and fitted up the Eden Mill, find great difficulty in conveying produce from any quarter to or from it. And yet, one-fiftieth part the labour which is now being expended on some distant and comparatively useless roads, would put this thoroughfare in a permanent state of repair.
NOTICE.
. THE PARTNERSHIP existing between Charles Frederick Partington and James Bycroft, of Epsom, lately carrying on the Business as Millers, was dissolved by mutual consent, on the 6th day of December 1849.
C. F. Partington, who still carries on the Business, has now on Sale at Epsom Mill
Flour, 1st qualities. ÂŁ12 10 0
" ration 11 0 0
" seconds 8 0 0
" do 9 0 0
} per ton of 2000 lbs Pollard, per 100 lbs. 5 0
Bran, per bushel 1 0
January 4, 1850.
SUPREME COURT.— Civil Side. Monday, June 7, 1852. Coolahan v. Low and Motion.It's not clear whether Bycroft had left the mill when the partnership disolved at the end of the previous decade, later to return, or whether that was simply a change to the financial arrangements - he may have stayed on as miller, but now as an employee of Partington, rather than as an equal partner.
...
John Bycroft, examined by Mr. Hartley, is a miller at Epsom. ... His present mill is a wind-mill.
A list of signatures to a public letter nominating Lieut. Colonel Wynyard for the office of Superintendent of the Province of Auckland, in April 1853, was signed by "John Bycroft, Miller, Epsom" (one of only a few names to carry names and locations - it looks as if one collector may have gathered info that the others did not), thus also confirming he was still there in that year.
A RETURN of the SALE of CROWN LANDS by Public Auction, held at Auckland on the 3rd day of May, 1853, in pursuance of a Proclamation dated the 31st of March, 1853.
Village of Onehunga. Section 35, Lot 14, 1 rod, John Bycroft, ÂŁ22.
Village of Panmure. Section 3, Lot 62, 1 rod, 32 perches, John Bycroft, ÂŁ7.
Bycroft was milling at Epsom until 1854, as recalled in an advert for the Bycroft milling firm in 1917. This also suggest that the mill machinery was removed, though that may just be speculation - the windmill clearly functioned after Bycroft left, so the machinery was either left in place, or was otherwise replaced, which seems less likely: New Zealand Herald, Volume LIV, Issue 16633, 1 September 1917
JOHN BYCROFT COMMENCED MILLING IN EPSOM AWAY BACK IN 1847 - JUST SEVENTY YEARS AGO.
The old mill is a landmark there to this day, an ancient stone structure, whose history probably few in the district are aware of nowadays.
In those ancient days the Maoris used to bring their corn to the mill in flax kits to be ground into flour.
About seven years after starting in Epsom Mr. Bycroft removed his milling machinery to Onehunga, and commenced milling there, with water power from some springs in the vicinity.
The obituary for Louth Bycroft, John Bycroft's son, suggests that the move took place in 1855, but that the family continued to work both mills through to the 1860's: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22493, 10 August 1936
Mr. Bycroft was born in 1848 near the old windmill, Epsom, which was owned by his father, together with several acres of land in the vicinity. The mill was built of stone in 1845 and for many years ground corn for the young settlement, Epsom at that time being an important farming district, furnishing the mill with large supplies of wheat, oats and maize, grown by both pakehas and Maoris.
... In 1855 the family removed to Onehunga, where Mr. John Bycroft established a second flour mill on the site now occupied by W. Sutherland and Company's tannery. ... For many years the family worked both mills.
On the outbreak of the Maori War in the 'sixties Mr. John Bycroft secured the contract for grinding the corn for the troops, including the crushing of maize for the horses and bullocks, and while the war lasted both mills were worked at high pressure day and night, Mr. Louth Bycroft, although but a lad, being exclusively employed crushing oats.
OTAHUHU AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION.Sales of the product were handled by C J Stone: New Zealander, Volume XVI, Issue 1459, 11 April 1860, Page 2
Quarterly Meeting— August 1. Present : Major Nixon (President), and 32 members....
Mr. Smythies informed the meeting that Mr. Bycroft of Epsom Mill, had commenced the manufacture of "bone dust," and was prepared to deliver it either crushed or ground; the ground not to exceed ÂŁ9 per ton : the crushed at a lower price. Mr. Bycroft would give 2s. per cwt. for bones. Mr. Smythies produced a sample of the ground bone dust, which was highly approved of, and two tons immediately bespoke by a farmer in the Mangarie district.
Bone Manure! Bone Manure!!Bone dust was much valued on the local soils: New Zealander, Volume XVII, Issue 1543, 30 January 1861, Page 5
THE Epsom BONE MILL is now in full operation. Bone Meal, Crushed Bones, Supplied in any quantity.
Terms Cash. C. J. Stone, Queen-street Wharf, April 10, 1860.
SOILS OF THE PROVINCE OF AUCKLAND.After two years the product was well established: New Zealander, Volume XVII, Issue 1591, 17 July 1861, Page 4
MANURES (ARTIFICIAL) No. 3
To enter into a diquisition on the nature and modes of application of the numerous manures and compounds, which may be classed under the term artificial, would be out of place in a paper, the remarks of which are intended only for colonial information. Several however of the more valuable of these manures are within our reach, and on those alone - such as guano, bonedust, nitrate of soda, nitrate of potash, and lastly, though it should scarcely be classed among manures, lime - shall we offer any remarks....
The most important of the artificial manures within our reach, now that a bone mill has been established near Auckland, and because of its lasting effects, is bone dust. As a general rule a greater benefit will be derived from this manure on light, than on heavy soils, such as still clays.
Bone Dust!! Bone Dust!!!Later, Bycroft introduced specialist machinery to produce bone dust at his mill at Onehunga, which presumably meant the end of the Epsom mill operation: Daily Southern Cross, Volume XIX, Issue 1839, 9 June 1863, Page 1
THE successful results of two years experience with this invaluable manure has fully established its character as eminently suited to the various soils of this Province.
TRY IT! - or consult your neighbours who have done so. Their testimony is confidently appealed to. To be obtained in any quantity of the Undersigned.
C. J. STONE. Queen-street Wharf, 24th June, 1861.
BONE DUST! BONE DUST!!The Onehunga operation was able to supply multiple grades of the product: New Zealander, Volume XIX, Issue 1931, 28 July 1863, Page 1
THE Undersigned is now prepared - with new and POWERFUL MACHINERY to supply FINE BONE DUST, in quantities to suit purchasers. - Apply to Mr. John Bycroft, at the Mills, Onehunga, or to C. J. STONE.
Terms : - Cash. Queen-street Wharf, June 8th, 1863.
BONE DUST.
THE Undersigned is now prepared to supply in any quantity
FINE BONE DUST, 1/4-INCH BONE DUST, 1-INCH BONE DUST
Apply to Mr. BYCROFT, at the Mills, Onehunga, or to C. J. STONE. 18th July, 1863.
Wardens' Office, Newmarket, February 21, 1861.The mill was a landmark, used to give location for other places nearby: New Zealander, Volume XVII, Issue 1610, 21 September 1861, Page 1
Tenders will be received at the Wardens' Office, Newmarket, until THURSDAY, 4th April, at 12 o'clock, a.m., for sinking a Well and erecting a Trough and Pump on a Government Reserve near the Windmill, Epsom.
Not bound to accept the lowest or any tender.
JOHN COLDICUTT, JOSEPH BYCROFT } Wardens.
For Sale, Rent, or 21 years Lease,
THE following valuable properties, or any portion thereof. ...
IN THE CITY OF AUCKLAND.
1. Ten Building Lots, Hepburne and Anglesea strects, near Wellington-street, and easy of access.
MOUNT EDEN, FINELY SHELTERED AND GOOD VIEW.
2. Fine lot, of 13a Or 15p, just at the back of Half Way House. Water and good road.
3. Fine lot, of 4a Or 15p, west of the Wind Mill.
Epsom Windmill.An updated sales note for a later sale added a little more information Daily Southern Cross, Volume XVIII, Issue 1499, 29 April 1862
CONNELL AND RIDINGS Are instructed to Sell by Auction, on FRIDAY, 28th instant,
SUBURBAN Farm No. 69, containing two acres, situated near Mount Eden, together with the Windmill and Machinery erected thereon.
Terms at Sale.
Epsom Windmill.It is likely that this offer for sale indicated the end of milling at the mill - the bone dust works were now established at Onehunga, so the windmill was no longer needed for this task. Some secondary sources suggest that it may have returned to flour milling after the bone milling came to an end, but I've found no firm evidence to support this. Bycroft however did not redeem the mortgage on the freehold land including the mill till August 1865.
CONNELL & RIDINGS
Will sell by auction, THIS DAY (Tuesday,) SUBURBAN FARM No. 69, containing two acres, situated near Mount Eden, together with THE WINDMILL erected thereon.
There is an excellent pair of Mill Stones and a quantity of Machinery, which cost the proprietor several hundred pounds.
Terms - Cash.
The mill was a nautical landmark. New Zealander, Volume XVIII, Issue 1681, 28 May 1862
EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF H.M.S. “NIGER” WHILE ON THE AUSTRALIAN STATION.
(From the Nautical Magazine, February and March, 1862.)
...
October 1st. ... The appearance of the city of Auckland, as viewed from the sea is not very striking. Its dimensions are at present restricted to two small bays — respectively named Commercial and Official, probably from the occupations of the inhabitants - and the adjoining headland, which terminate in low cliffs jutting into the harbour. At the extremity of the centre one there is a small unfinished fort or battery, containing some government buildings and the flagstaff, upon which is the union jack is hoisted. Behind it stands St. Paul’s, a neat looking church, with a low pointed octagonal belfry. A little higher up on the left stands the Government House, a building with some pretensions to effect. Although only constructed of wood, like every other house here, it cost more than fourteen throusand pounds (£14,581), and the money for it was borrowed at ten per cent, interest. Nearly behind it, surrounded by a high wall, are the barracks, the roofs only visible, which can accommodate some five hundred men. The houses are clustered together on either hand, apparently with little order or regularity, extending up the hill as far as a whitewashed windmill, which is a prominent feature in the landscape. They become, more scattered in the distance towards Mount Eden, an extinct volcano, 640 feet high, which bounds the view in that direction.
Despite being built just 20 years earlier, the mill starts to be described as "old", which may also indicate that it was now idle, though I guess that could in part be to contrast it with Partington's marginally newer windmill: New Zealander, Volume XXI, Issue 2203, 22 August 1864, Page 1
LOST.
One Pound, Reward.
LOST. - A BLUE HEIFER, branded W.B. in two places on the near side, and last seen by the owner near the old Epsom Windmill, about four months ago. Any one bringing the same to Mr. WRIGLEY, Newmarket, will receive the above reward or Ten-Shillings for such information as shall lead to her recovery.
August 20th, 1864
GARRISON HUNT.A reminder on the day: Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXII, Issue 2685, 23 February 1866
THE NEXT MEET will take place at the Old Windmill, Epsom, at 4.15 p.m., THIS DAY (Friday), the 23rd inst.
ARTHUR RAIT Hon. Sec. A.G.H.
SALES, MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c., THIS DAYNote that by now the mill, once considered remote, is now praised for being "near town": Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXII, Issue 2686, 24 February 1866
Garrison Hunt meet at 4.15 o'clock. at the old Windmill, Epsom.
The Garrison Hunt met yesterday at the old windmill on the Epsom Road. As the place of meet was near town, the attendance was larger than usual, and a number of ladies were present. The hounds threw off at about half-past four o'clock, and an excellent and fast run followed in the direction of the Pa Farm, the fences being stone walls, post-and-rail, and live fences with rails. After nearing tha Pa Farm the scent led back, and the run finished at near the starting-point. Major Baker officiated as master, Mr. Rait as whip, and the following gentlemen were the hounds : — Captain Machell, Mr, Matravers, Mr. Whidburn, Mr. Spiller, Mr. Heathcott, and Mr. Appleton. The paper was laid with great care by Mr. Woolfield and Mr. Appleton, to whom the gentlemen of the Hunt are much indebted for this service.As the report of the first meet a few months earlier had explained, the Garrison Hunt was a New Zealand adaptation of "fox-hunting": Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXI, Issue 2574, 18 October 1865
The first meet of the Garrison Hunt took place yesterday, on the grounds of B. McLean, Esq., East Tamaki. The meet was at Pigeon Mountain, three miles from the Panmure Ferry, on the Howick Road; and at half-past one o'clock several hundred people had assembled, of whom about a hundred were mounted, but only between thirty and forty essayed the run. ... The spectators had an excellent view of the run from Pigeon Mountain, and the whole affair was immensely enjoyed both by those who rode the course and enjoyed the sport and the risk, and those who contented themselves with looking on. The members of the Hunt feel very grateful to Mr. Maclean for giving them the ground; and, as this sport might have as great an effect on the improvement of the breed of horses as racing, it is to be hoped that other gentlemen will follow his example, and offer their ground for this, the nearest approach to the old English sport of fox-hunting we can attain in New Zealand.
TEN SHILLINGS REWARD. - STRAYED, a Dark Red Shorthorn COW, with white on tail and flanks. - Any person supplying such information as shall lead to her recovery to Robert Robertson, Old Windmill, Mount Eden, shall receive the above reward.There are many unsubstantiated statements in print that say that Roberston used the windmill for milling, for both bone meal and flour, which I think is unlikely, and probably arose due to confusion over dates. Also unsubstantiated, but more believable, are the reports that Robertson turned the ground floor of the mill into a dairy.
Both Robertson's wife, Wilhilmina (1885), and Robertson himself (1893) were recorded as dying at the Old Mill, Epsom.
Sales by Auction.
B. TONKS ] [ R. C. CARR
MONDAY, DECEMBER 20.
EXTENSIVE SALE OF FREEHOLD PROPERTY.
...
MOUNT EDEN. Part of Lot 68, about 11 acres, near Mr. Paton's old mill.
Between the late 1860's and the 1920's, the Epsom mill is all but forgotten - there is hardly any real news being reported about it at all. Later, secondary reports (given below) looking back over this period of time suggest that:
Even in 1880, when John Bycroft, the former miller at Epsom windmill, died, the mill is mentioned only in passing, and inaccurately at that. The newspaper reports of his death incorrectly stated that he erected the mill, whereas the contemporary reports name Mason as financing it, with only Low and Partington doing the construction work. Bycroft's association with the mill was a long one, starting from when he partnered with Partington to buy the mill a couple of years after it had been built. This report that Bycroft built the mill has been repeated in newspaper and other publications ever since.
A nearby cottage was burnt down: Auckland Star, Volume XIX, Issue 149, 25 June 1888, Page 8FIRE NEAR MOUNT EDEN.The New Zealand Graphic in August 1892 includes two illustrations of the mill, showing it was creeper covered around this time. Both images show something protruding from the top of the mill - maybe that was the Queen's jubilee flagpole remembered by Fordyce's wife:
This morning, about ten o'clock, fire broke out in a small cottage near the old mill on the border of Mount Eden and Epsom districts, and the building was burnt to the ground. On account of the distance from town, no further particulars of the occurrence have yet been obtained.
A mention of the mill in an advert for pigs, but no info as to whom placed the ad. Note the name is capitalized and there is no word "the", suggesting this is a house name, rather than just a descriptive phrase - thus probably meaning the mill house rather than the mill itself being used as a residence. Auckland Star, Volume XXVIII, Issue 195, 21 August 1897, Page 1The Old Mill at Epsom. S. Frith, amateur photo.
Epsom Old Mill.
FOR SALE, a nice lot of Well-bred Berkshire Weaners. — Apply at Old Mill, Epsom.
J. BYCROFT & CO'S (LIMITED) CITY FLOUR MILL.This history thus seems to be the source of the stories of Maori bringing their grain to the mill. It also says that Bycroft "occupied" the mill almost from its building if the dates are accurate - perhaps Mason employed Bycroft to do his milling for him, before Bycroft actually bought in to the mill. The 17 year run at the windmill confirms the approximate early 1860's demise of milling there.
This extensive building, situated in Shortland-street, has recently been re-furnished throughout on the roller system, and is now one of the most perfect flour-mills in the colonies. In describing the new arrangement it will be interesting to give a briefRETROSPECT
of the early existence and growth of this business. Everybody who has been to the top of Mount Eden must have noticed the ivy-coloured seventeenth-century-looking ruin which stands on the scoria on the southern side of the mount. About forty-eight years ago this building, which was one of the first grain mills erected in the province, was occupied by Mr. Bycroft, father of the present Mr. J. Bycroft. DuringFORTY-EIGHT YEARS
of our colonial life great changes have taken place, as anyone, comparing this old windmill with the capacious structure which now gives shelter to the business, which then had its inception, will admit. As the tower of the old mill is built of good solid scoria, it will, in all probability, be a lasting link between the ancient and the modern times. In those old days the Maori were the sole growers of the wheat which was consumed in this city. The dwellers in the far-away settlements of the Waikato brought theGRAIN IN KITS
- sacks were unknown - in canoes down the river, across the Awaroa swamp to Waiuku, and thence in their canoes to the Onehunga beach, where it was unladen by the Maoris and their women, and carried on the backs of the latter, or carted in the miller's cart to be ground at the then new windmill. The East Coast natives also supplied their quota, and canoes or cutters lying over on their bilge on the mud of the Waitemata, were relieved of their kits of wheat by the cart, which backedOVER THE SLIMY MUD
to receive its freight, where now reclamation and buildings stand. Seventeen years later the business was removed to the Onehunga Springs, which supplied water for the turbine wheel which operated the one pair of stones with which it was furnished.
LOST AND FOUND.Thorpe was notorious for letting his cows stray: Auckland Star, Volume XXXV, Issue 294, 9 December 1904, Page 5
If Horse left at Old Mill on 13th April is not claimed in 7 days, it will be sold. - Joseph Thorpe, Old Mill, Epsom.
A Cow Sacrificed. - A man named Joseph Thorpe was charged with permitting cows to graze on the Epsom roads on two occasions. Mr Purchas appeared for the Epsom Road Board, and said that the cows grazing on the roads were a public nuisance, as they destroyed the footpaths on many of the newly-formed roads and the hedges round various properties. Mr Mahony defended, and pleaded guilty, but said that the defendant had sent a boy to look after the cattle. He admitted that Thorpe had been warned before for this offence. His Worship said that these wandering cows were a source of danger and must be kept within bounds. A fine of 60/ and costs on the first charge and 20/ and costs on the second was imposed.Once again the cows got out: Auckland Star, Volume XXXVI, Issue 16, 19 January 1905, Page 5
The Epsom Footpaths. — Joseph Thorpe, an Epsom dairyman, was summoned for allowing seven cattle to be grazed on Drive-road, while William and Frederick Thorpe were summoned for Interfering with and rescuing the cows from the ranger who had seized them. Mr Purchas, who prosecuted on behalf of the Epsom Road Board, stated that they felt it incumbent upon them to prevent the promiscuous straying of cattle, as the animals trampled upon the newly-formed footpaths made by the property-owners and handed over to the local authority. Joseph Thorpe, father of the other defendants, was the worst offender in the district. He had been twice convicted for allowing his cattle to stray on the road, but he seemed to defy all attempts which were made to prevent his cattle from grazing on the roads. The Epsom ranger, D. T. Jack, stated that he found Thorpe's cattle on the road near the school, and was taking them to the pound when Mr Thorpe's sons drove them away. He admitted to Mr Mahony, who represented the Thorpes, that he was offered the driving fee on the road, but he had been legally advised to take the cattle on to the pound and charge the impounding fee. Mr Mahony called Frederick Thorpe, who said the cattle were placed in a fenced allotment in the morning, and were not allowed to stray on the road. He tendered Jack the driving fee which he refused. Mr Thorpe, senior, was fined 10/ and costs, and the cases against his sons were dismissed.The cows didn't go far - just into the nearby Windmill Road: Auckland Star, Volume XXXVI, Issue 217, 11 September 1905, Page 4
The troublesome nuisance of straying cattle which has to be dealt with frequently by the Epsom Road Board resulted in the prosecution, before Mr Dyer, S.M., to-day, of Joseph Thorpe for permitting three cows to wander at large in Windmill-road, Epsom. Mr Wynyard. the Epsom Road Board's solicitor, made an opening statement from which it appeared that when Mr Thorpe's cattle strayed they were impounded, and he paid the fees. The information was in reference to the same cattle, and the magistrate expressed his strong disinclination to punish a man twice for the same offence. He suggested that the information should be withdrawn. Mr Wynyard agreed to this, and the magistrate, in sanctioning the course, warned Mr Thorpe that his cattle would lead him into serious trouble if he permitted them to wander again.Thorpe retired and sold the cows: Auckland Star, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 82, 6 April 1907, Page 8
TUESDAY, APRIL 9.It looks like Thorpe died in 1921: Auckland Star, Volume LII, Issue 174, 23 July 1921, Page 9
JUNCTION YARDS.
The undersigned have received instructions from Mr Joseph Thorpe, of Epsom (who is retiring from dairying), to Sell his Herd of 14 PART JERSEY COWS, milking and to calve.
Also, on account of Owner 50 STEERS, in fresh condition.
NEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MERCANTILE AGENCY, CO., LTD.
H. O. NOLAN, Auctioneer.
PUBLIC TRUST OFFICE.
CLAIMS AGAINST ESTATES.
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 50 of the Public Trust Office Act, 1908. that all Creditors and others having claims against any of the deceased persons whose names appear in the Schedule hereunder (and whose estates are under administration by the Public Trustee) are hereby required to lodge in duplicate snch claims, supported by full particulars, and certified as due and owing by the respective estates at the death of the respective deceased persons, with the Public Trustee's local office at Auckland, on or before the 26th day of September. 1921.
Any Claim not lodged by the date named is liable to exclusion.
SCHEDULE.
JOSEPH THORPE, late of Anckland, Retired Dairyman.
E. O. HALES, Local Deputy Public Trustee. Auckland, 22nd July, 1921.
Although the city of Auckland had expanded so the mill was no longer as remote as it once was, the road was not served by reliable water: Auckland Star, Volume XLV, Issue 11, 13 January 1914, Page 4
The residents of that portion of the Epsom Road Board district surrounding the old windmill and adjoining the Mount Eden tram terminus are dissatisfied with the lack of a water supply in their neighbourhood. A meeting of ratepayers was held at the house of Mr F. Fordyce last evening, about 20 ratepayers attending and it was then decidied to approach the Mount Eden Borough Council and inquire whether it would accept the area in question (estimated to be worth ÂŁ22.000) as a part of the borough, and that the Road Board be advised accordingly. On inquiry this morning, a reporter was informed that the area mentioned was outside the district controlled by the Manukau Water Supply Board, which supplies all water used in Epsom Road district, the Road Board having nothing to do with the matter. It appears that some time ago the Water Supply Board offered to provide a service on the usual terms charged to persons residing outside its district, but these did not prove acceptable, and the negotiations came to nothing.
More livestock sales being advertised from the mill, by someone using the name "Ion": Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 294, 11 December 1919, Page 3
HEIFER, Jersey Shorthorn about 10 months, very choice; no reasonable offer refused. - Ion, Old Mill, at. Andrew's Rd., Epsom.Repeated, with a specific price mentioned: Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 300, 18 December 1919, Page 2
HEIFER. Jersey-Shorthorn, 10 months, real good; ÂŁ3 or offer; no feed. - Ion The Old Mill. Epsom.All creatures great and small: Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 300, 18 December 1919, Page 2
HEN and 10 Chicks, about 6 weeks old; cheap, good strain. - Ion, Old Mill, St Andrew's Rd., Epsom.
THE OLD WINDMILL.A particularly inaccurate article on Auckland's windmills appeared in 1923: Evening Post, Volume CV, Issue 43, 20 February 1923
AN HISTORIC LANDMARK.
BY ELSIE K. MORTON....
The march of progress has left to Auckland but few reminders of the early dawn of settlement: there is another old mill out in Epsom, believed to have been built by Mr. Partington a few years before the City Road Mill. This ancient mill, a most picturesque old relic of the past until the ivy was torn from it a year or two ago, was built of blocks of bluestone, 3ft. 6in. thick, hewn by hand, and fastened together with clay mortar. Epsom at that time was a great wheat growing district, and old residents still tell of the strong bullock teams which used to draw the grain up the hill to the old mill, which in the early days was also used for grinding bones. These two mills were among the very first of Auckland's landmarks, and having endured three-quarters of a century, they are now almost the last remaining links connecting the busy, prosperous city of today with that little pioneering settlement which was the Auckland of the forties.
According to an old resident of Auckland city, who was there 70 years ago, windmills have always been a feature of the Auckland landscape. At present the only one left is Parkinson's mill, on the brow of the Karangahape road Bridge, near Grafton Bridge. Others have left their memories in the street nomenclature, as Windmill road, in Mt. Eden, and Mill street, in the city, Just off Queen street. In the very early days there were three windmills in Auckland - Parkinson's at Karanagahape road, the one at Mt. Eden, and Motion's mill on the edge of the present zoo grounds at Grey Lynn. The ivy-covered ruins of the Mt. Eden mill still stand, and Parkinson's remains in full working order as one of the city's landmarks. A fourth windmill (Firth's) was erected in Queen street, but it disappeared in the growth of Queen street, when years later the picturesque windmills were practically out of action.Errors are
WANTED TO SELL.As Fordyce's plans for demolition continue, the mill seems destined to be inaccurately reported:
200 TONS Stone, including pulling down old mill, Epsom. - T. Fordyce, 99, Balmoral Rd., Mt. Eden.
LANDMARK THREATENEDThe possibility of demolition brought on some more reminiscences: Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 295, 13 December 1928
WINDMILL NEAR MT. EDEN.
VENERABLE STONE PILE.
WHEAT GROUND IN EARLY DAYS
"Anyone who wants the stone can have it," said Mr. T. Fordyce, a veteran Mount Eden resident, to-day, in mentioning the fact that the old windmill in St. Andrew's Road - one of the best known landmarks on the borders of the Mount Eden and Epsom districts - was likely to be demolished at an early date.
The old mill was built 70 years ago by the late Mr. J. Bycroft, and at that time wheat was extensively grown in parts of the Mount Eden and Epsom districts. In 1865 the mill was acquired by the late Mr. Robert Robertson. Later it was used to grind bones to make fertiliser, but it was once more used for milling flour, although the operations only went on for a comparatively short time.
Solidly built with stone, with a main door several feet in thickness, the mill was something in the nature of a fortress during those far-away and often troubled times. Once refugees from the Otahuhu district sheltered behind its secure walls, and on the occasion the late Mr. Robertson was called up for the militia, when the Maori war was brewing, he was regarded as a specially valuable recruit, seeing that he had a castle ready for defensive use should it be needed.
In the passing of the years the mill property came into the hands of Mr. Fordyce, and some of the old mill machinery is still on his property in Balmoral Road. His own knowledge of the mill goes back close on half a century, and of its history before that time he knows a great deal.
There was one occasion in the old days when Customs officers made a raid on the mill in the belief that there was contraband concealed, but they were assured as the result of their visit that it was merely a peaceful industry and that everything was all right.
"When I first knew the mill, there were only five houses in sight from there," said Mr. Fordyce. "Payton's Pond was in the foreground, and just about where Merivale Avenue is there was one block of 60 acres where splendid wheat was grown every season. There were mostly dairy farms scattered about, and nobody thought at that time that the day would come when it would be a closely-settled residential area. When the mill was built ivy was planted round the walls, and it grew until the whole mill was covered. Then it was found that the ivy harboured an army of rats, and the creeper was cut off at the roots.
Mr. Fordyce has in his possession a painting of the mill which was made many years ago. It shows the mill standing alone on a rocky hill-top with Payton's Pond in the foreground, quite an ornamental sheet of water, with cabbage trees and raupo on its shore. An artistic licence has brought Mount St. John and Rangitoto into the background. Yet otherwise it is a faithful representation of that part of Auckland in the old days.
At that time the locality was about one of the roughest patches on the isthmus, with outcrops of volcanic rock liberally distributed. The site was evidently chosen because it was a hilltop, and there was plenty of wind to drive the sails. When the mill was operating wheat was brought from a considerable distance away, and the product of the mill was distributed over a very big area.
The hope has been expressed at different times that something might be done to preserve the venerable pile and landmark, but as there does not appear to be any immediate prospect in that direction there is a greater likelihood that the stone that has stood and defied the ravages of wind and weather for seventy years may fairly soon be used for the purpose of providing part of the foundation of a suburban road.
Whilst the caption uses the word ruins, the photo shows the tower was not particularly ruinous: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20128, 13 December 1928MT. EDEN LANDMARK TO GO - The old windmill in St. Andrew's Road, built on the lines of a medieval castle by the late Mr. J. Bycroft seventy years ago, has stood the ravages of wind and weather. In the very early days, corn and wheat grown on the isthmus was ground there, and on one occasion, during the turbulent times of the Maori war, it was used as a haven of refuge. The photo on the left shows the ruin as it appears to-day, and on the right an earlier view, when it was wrapped with creeper.
A LINK WITH THE EARLY DAYS.
The ruins of the old windmill in St. Andrew's Road, Mount Eden, which may be demolished. The mill was built 75 years ago by the late Mr. J. Bycroft.
OLD WINDMILL TO GO.The article was accompanied with a photo: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20698, 18 October 1930
LANDMARK AT EPSOM.
DECISION OF THE OWNER.
SUBDIVISION OBSTRUCTED.
A RELIC OF THE EARLY DAYS.
The old stone windmill at the corner of St. Andrew's and Windmill Roads, Epsom, will be demolished in the next few weeks by the owner in furtherance of his plans for the subdivision and sale of the property. Two years ago an effort was made by the neighbouring residents to save this well-known landmark, one of the oldest remaining stone buildings in Auckland, but the scheme came to nothing.
The building is nearly 80 years old and has been unused for 50 years. The wooden dwelling that stands only 2ft. away from it is now empty and a notice-board near the road reads "Allotments for sale." The adjacent section has been sold and on it workmen are building a modern two storey residence.
The owner of the mill, Mr. T. Fordyce, lives at 99, Balmoral Road, Mount Eden.- "I am going to put some dynamite under it and blow it up," he said yesterday. "It is in the way and will not help me to realise my property." He produced a plan showing how he was subdividing the land. He was going to move the house into one of the sections, he said, and it would then have its frontage to St. Andrew's Road obstructed by the windmill. No one would purchase the section under such conditions so he was going to demolish the mill and use the stone to fill up a hollow near by.
Raising of Fund Suggested.
Mr. Fordyce was asked if he realised the destruction of the mill would be deplored by a great many Auckland people. "That may be so, but the mill is no good to me," he replied. "Some time ago some people came to me and said they would raise a fund among the neighbours if I would consent not to touch the windmill. I replied that I did not want a gift like that. If anyone would like the windmill, let them come and buy the section it stands on."
The mill was built by the late Mr. J. Bycroft when wheat was grown extensively in the Mount Eden district, and in 1865 it passed into the hands of Mr. Fordyce's grandfather, the late Mr. Robert Robertson, who used it to grind bones for fertiliser. It was later used again for the milling of flour, but only for a short period. The walls are 4ft. in thickness and are of stone with an inner lining of rubble.
Early Use as Fortress.
It is stated by old residents that during the days of the Maori wars, when Auckland was threatened with invasion from the south, the mill was used as a fortress and that on one occasion refugees from as far afield as Otahuhu sought shelter within its walls.
Mrs. Fordyce states that when the mill was dismantled 50 years ago her husband furnished a bedroom in the highest of the mill's four storeys and lived there for a number of years. She said: "I remember seeing the sails, which were covered with wood shingles, such as you might see on the roof of an old house, lying in the yard after they had been dismantled; and I distinctly recollect seeing my husband erecting a flagpole on the top of the mill at the time of Queen Victoria's Jubilee in 1887."
Other papers also carried the news: Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 247, 18 October 1930ONE OF AUCKLAND'S OLDEST LANDMARKS TO BE DEMOLISHED.
The old stone windmill in St. Andrew's Road, Epsom, which is shortly to be demolished. It was built 80 years ago, and in addition to being used for milling flour, has served both as a fortress and for the purposes of grinding fertilizer. It is to be removed in order to make room for a residential building site.
Windmill to be Demolished.The question of preservation was raised with the Government: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20700, 21 October 1930
One of the oldest remaining stone buildings in Auckland, the old stone windmill at the corner of St. Andrew's and Windmill Roads, Epsom, will be demolished in the next few weeks. The owner has planned for the sub-division and sale of his property. Two years ago neighbouring residents made an effort to save this well-known landmark, but their efforts were fruitless. Nearly 80 years old, the windmill has not been used for 50 years. The owner of the building is Mr. T. Fordyce, who lives at 99, Balmoral Road, Mount Eden. He proposes to put a charge of dynamite under the mill and blow it up. He said it was in his way and would not help to realise his property. The mill was built by the late Mr. J. Bycroft when wheat was grown extensively in the Mount Eden district. In 1865 the mill was owned by Mr. Fordyce's grandfather, the late Mr. Robert Robertson. At that time it was used to grind bones for fertiliser, and later still it was again used for milling flour. The walls are 4ft thick, made of stone, with inner lining of rubble. Old residents say that during the days of the Maori wars, when Auckland was threatened with invasion from the south, the mill was used as a fortress. On one occasion, the story goes, refugees from far away Otahuhu were sheltered within its walls.
OLD WINDMILL AT EPSOM.A pair of letters appeared in the paper supporting preserving the "old windmill". Neither are particularly specific about which mill they mean, and I suspect that the second one in particular was really talking about Partington's mill - that example would seem to be a better fit for the "finer and statelier" description when compared to the Golden Gate Park windmill, than the bare tower that Epsom windmill was at the time. New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20704, 25 October 1930
INQUIRY IN THE HOUSE.
[By telegraph - special reporter]
WELLINGTON, Monday.
An inquiry as to whether the Government would take steps to preserve the old windmill in St. Andrews, Epsom, was made by Mr. J. S. Fletcher (Independent - Grey Lynn) in a notice of question to the acting Prime Minister, Hon. E. A. Ransom in the House of Representatives today. Mr Fletcher pointed out that the windmill was an historic landmark in Auckland.
THE OLD WINDMILL.Children from a nearby school were photographed sketching the mill. Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 256, 29 October 1930
Sir,-Surely there are some public-spirited citizens who will subscribe sufficient to purchase the freehold of this historical mill. It will be a reproach to us if we allow it to be pulled down. How about a shilling subscription for all to participate? G.
Sir, - It is with great grief I hear there is an intention to do away with the old windmill, so characteristic a feature of Auckland. Without it, Auckland will not seem to be Auckland. Here we have a precious heritage of old time, of (we thought) lasting beauty and association, but nothing is so precious but that somewhere someone will be found wishing to destroy it. These people have one moral value - they are working to make us less fond of this world that we are bound to leave, as we must consider our end with the less regret as there is less to leave. With all our movie pictures, chiefly of the West of America, are we not all as yet instructed as to the windmill of San Francisco, one of the antiques of the city, considered a treasure by the citizens? What Aucklander, in seeing it on the screen, did not think proudly, "Ours is much finer and statelier." I wish we could draw on the future to save our windmill. Loans for everything else; can there not be one for this? This unique memorial of the old time of actual struggle and peril in the infancy of our city and country I hope will last to be a treasure to many generations, and so sign myself Expectant.
The possibility of preserving the mill was discussed again, but came to nothing: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20712, 4 November 1930A LINK WITH THE 'FIFTIES.-Pupils from the Normal School sketching the historic windmill in St. Andrew's Road, Epsom. It was built eighty years ago.
THE OLD EPSOM WINDMILL.The council did consider the matter: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20727, 21 November 1930
Sir,-I am in hearty accord with those correspondents who wish to preserve this old windmill, and if as I am informed, the city own adjoining properly, surely it would meet the wishes of all citizens if the city would give in exchange a section of equal value to Mr. Fordyce and thus leave the old landmark. It would probably prove a good speculation as in time, being near the site of a sports ground, the windmill might be turned into an ornamental and interesting tea house. Let the City Council carry out this idea and it would, I have no doubt, be welcomed by the whole community.
Rostrevor.
The possibilities of preserving the old windmill on private property in St. Andrew's Road, Epsom, are to be considered by the City Council. The windmill is a link with the early history of the city, and at the meeting of the council last evening a letter was received from Mr. T. Fordyce offering to sell the section on which the windmill is [...] ferred to the Parks Committe for a report.A 1932 mention says "now dismantled", but that could mean almost anything: Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 41, 19 January 1932
Mrs S. E. Willetts, who claims to be the oldest surviving white woman born in Auckland, yesterday attained the age of 88 years. She was formerly Miss McQuoid, and her father lived to the age of 95 years. Mrs Willetts was born near the Epsom windmill, now dismantled, and was one of the first scholars at St. Andrew’s Anglican Sunday School.Fordyce died in 1932, and that presumably saved the mill for a few more years.
In 1934: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21829, 18 June 1934, Page 6SPRINGING TO THE BALL. - There was plenty of action at the Windmill Road courts yesterday afternoon when the Auckland primary schools' basketball tournament was in progress. Sixty-two teams competed.
In 1935: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22095, 29 April 1935, Page 6SUSPENSE
A tense moment during Saturday's basketball match between Lynndale and University at the Windmill Road Courts.
In 1937: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22823, 2 September 1937, Page 8FINALISTS IN AUCKLAND LAWN TENNIS ASSOCIATION'S HARD COURT CHAMPIONSHIPS
A. D. Brown (left), Eden and Epsom, winner of the men's singles title, and A. Porter, Remuera, the runner-up, photographed in action on the Windmill Road courts during Saturday's play.
Another picture of the 1937 tournament, from Auckland Weekly News, 8 September 1937 via Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19370908-54-1:NATIONAL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT OFFICIALLY OPENED AT THE WINDMILL ROAD COURTS. AUCKLAND, YESTERDAY
Left: The Mayoress of Auckland, Lady Davis, declaring the tournament opened. Right: Members of the Wairoa team with their mascot. Matches were played throughout yesterday and will be continued until Saturday.
in 1939: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23451, 14 September 1939, Page 6
PRIMARY SCHOOL GIRLS IN ANNUAL BASKETBALL TOURNEY
Play at the Windmill Road courts yesterday afternoon, when the Auckland Primary Schools Basketball Association's tournament began.
Few more picturesque relics will be found than Auckland's two windmills, the one near the top of Upper Queen Street boasting the unique distinction of to-day grinding corn by sail-power as it did when it was built over 89 years ago. The other windmill, at Mount Eden, has long been disused and little but the stonework of its tower remains. It, too, ground wheat in the days when the Herald was young; and in the Maori War, when blockhouses and patrols guarded the outskirts of Auckland against possible native raids, it was appointed a place of refuge.An article in 1938 talked about the ruins of the old mill - again since this wasn't a news item, then the publication date may have been quite some time after the article was actually written: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22961, 12 February 1938
No one would claim any artistic preminence for the ruins of the old mill in Epsom. But I never pass it without feeling something of what it stood for in the lives of the early citizens of Auckland. There come back pictures of fields of grain where now suburban bungalows huddle together and splash the landscape with the red of their roofs, acres painfully brought into cultivation with few and primitive appliances, the grain reaped with the scythe, threshed with the flail, the procession of cart and sledge to the all-important mill, and the bread problem solved for another year.A 1940's obituary mentions someone living at the mill, possibly in the 1880's: New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23623, 5 April 1940
OBITUARYThere are plenty of newspaper references to Manfred Kew, but none of them mention him living at the mill, so perhaps his wife was there before their marriage.
MRS. MARGARET KEW
The death has occurred in Auckland of Mrs. Margaret Kew at the age of 78. Coming to Auckland from Preston, Lancashire, when she was 13 years old, she married Mr. Manfred Kew when she was 19 and lived for a time at the old mill in Epsom. For a number of years she lived at Ness Valley and later at Pokeno, where Mr. Kew, who died in 1930, was engaged in farming. They celebrated their golden wedding at Pokeno in 1930. Mrs. Kew is survived by six daughters and two sons.
In 1945, when there was a big push to save Partington's mill, a voice piped up to point out that the even older windmill at Epsom still existed: New Zealand Herald, Volume 82, Issue 25157, 21 March 1945, Page 6
The Oldest Windmill
Sir, - The oldest windmill in Auckland is situated in St. Andrew's Road, Epsom. This mill, which is well over 100 years old, is built of stone and is more entitled to be preserved than the one in Symonds Street. If the citizens of Auckland wish to preserve historical windmills, why not remove the top and sails from the one in Symonds Street and erect them on Auckland's oldest mill in St. Andrew's Road, which is at present minus top and sails, and so preserve both. The cost would be considerably less and a dual purpose would be served.
H. J. Butcher.
After Thomas Fordyce's death the mill was in posession of Johanna Catherine Fordyce, and in 1948 it was transferred to Frank Edward Holland and Donald James Munro as tenants in common.
The New Zealand Herald, 6th December 1952, reported that demolition occured on the weekend of 29/30th November 1952. Some stone may have been retained on site and incorporated into garden walls.
Mr D. M. Rae (Parnell) - ... I think all Members of the House do full appreciate the need for some organization to arouse and maintain interest in our historic places before it is too late. I say advisedly "before it is too late" because I myself have seen many places of historic interest that have been demolished because of lack of public interest. I do not want to be parochial, but Members will excuse me if I make some reference to places where I live, in Auckland. We had two very interesting windmills that went back to the very beginnings of our history in that city. One, in Symonds Street, with its quaint sails was of very great interest to visitors and to Auckland people.
The Rev Mr Carr. - Partington's windmill.
Mr. D. M. Rae - Yes, I am referring to Partington's windmill. It was on the skyline of Auckland and poets and writers and painters knew it well. It was part of our environment in Auckland but, because of the development of commerce, and because people lacked sufficient interest, it was demolished, and no longer have we that interesting old relic of a very interesting past in Auckland which was known and loved by many people througout New Zealand and even outside New Zealand. There was another old windmill - Bycroft's Mill in Windmill Road - that was built in the early forties to grind the wheat grown in the adjacent fields. It was bulldozed over a few days ago to make way for a dwelling.
There are two apparently contradictory sets of ownership details that show up, which I believe can be squared away by considering that there are two separate things being talked about, and that the owners of each part may not always have been the same. Specifically there is the freehold ownership of the plot of land, Suburban Farm Plot 69, and separately there is the ownership of the mill itself (perhaps leasehold, or merely tenancy).
| Last updated 16/09/2025 | Text and images © Mark Berry, 1997-2025 - |
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